Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid his last respects to senior BJP leader Vijay Kumar Malhotra at his Delhi residence and extended condolences to his family. Malhotra, the first president of the party’s Delhi unit, passed away earlier in the day at the age of 93.
The Prime Minister shared an emotional message on X, recalling Malhotra’s decades-long commitment to public life and his contributions to Delhi’s development. “Went to the residence of late Shri VK Malhotra Ji and paid tributes to him. Also expressed condolences to his family. His contribution to Delhi’s development and furthering our Party’s good governance agenda will be forever remembered,” PM Modi wrote.
Earlier, the Prime Minister praised Malhotra as a remarkable leader with a deep understanding of people’s concerns, crediting him with playing a crucial role in strengthening the BJP’s base in Delhi. “He is also remembered for his Parliamentary interventions. Pained by his passing away. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” he added in another tribute.
Following the veteran leader’s demise, the Delhi government cancelled several public events. Leaders across party lines expressed grief, highlighting Malhotra’s lifelong contributions.
Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan called him an “outstanding leader” known for his grasp of public issues and impact on sports administration. “Shri Malhotra Ji’s invaluable contributions to public life… will always be remembered,” he wrote on X.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described Malhotra as the “guardian of all our karyakartas” and said his passing was an “irreparable loss.” Recalling his journey from the Jan Sangh era to the formation of the BJP, the Chief Minister said his life symbolised organisational discipline and dedication.
BJP national president JP Nadda too paid homage, calling Malhotra’s life and work an inspiration for all party workers. “His struggle, unparalleled contribution, and sacrifice for the expansion of the organization and upliftment of society are unforgettable,” Nadda said in his condolence post on X.
Tributes continue to pour in for Malhotra, whose political career spanned decades and left a deep imprint on Delhi’s political landscape as well as on the BJP’s organisational growth.